HOW TO BE A BETTER FRIEND
Make yourself the ultimate confidant with four simple pieces of advice from psychologist JACQUI MANNING
Never forget self-reflection is key
Taking time to reflect on how you interact with your nearest and dearest is the best way to ensure you’re being the best friend you can be. “I think we’re often thinking about how people treat us and sometimes we forget what we’re putting into the friendship and how we’re treating others,” relationship coach Jacqui Manning tells. “I’ve gone through times in my life where I’ve neglected my friends a little, maybe because family or work was demanding more of my time, so I do think it’s important for all of us to reflect [on what kind of friend we’re being] from time to time.”
Touch base when you can
The beauty of securing close friends is picking up right where you left off – even if a great deal of time has passed. “I think with good friends... you don’t have to see them all the time,” says Jacqui. “But if you think a friend is going through a rough patch or just needs you, reach out to them and say, ‘Hey, I’m thinking of you even if I’m not around a lot,’ just so they know
that you’re there for them. Friendship is a two-way street so it’s about giving out as much as what you’re getting from them.”